If you are looking for a healthier alternative to smoking, then using a vape pen is an excellent choice. But of course, there are a few things to clarify before you do begin vaping. As someone who is expecting, I have often wondered if it is okay to use one, as it can be used as a way to quit smoking while pregnant.
Vape pens, which are also e-cigarettes, are battery-operated cigarettes that convert chemicals into vapour, which is inhaled. It has a similar feeling to traditional smoking, which is why it’s a popular alternative to the unhealthy habit. But will expecting moms be allowed to use them? Read on to find out!
Is Vaping Safe While Pregnant
Let’s begin with the truth: E-cigarettes aren’t regulated, nor are they approved by the FDA as a cessation aid (yet). This means that the exact amount of type of chemicals aren’t well-known and there may still be traces of nicotine. In addition to that, there hasn’t been enough research done to show if vaping is safe for pregnant women or not.
However studies have shown that even using smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco or snuff is associated with a number of severe consequences when pregnant. One may risk stillbirth, infant apnea, or preterm delivery when products like these are used while pregnant. Because of this, it’s best to stop using any form of e-cigarettes or anything that contains nicotine while pregnant.
What Happens If You Vape While Pregnant?
Yes, using vape pen or e-cigarettes is the lesser evil compared to traditional smoking, especially when you’re pregnant. But with that being said, vaping can affect your unborn child in many ways.
That is why it’s best to quit smoking altogether and find other alternatives to smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy is most recommended during pregnancy. However, studies have shown that this form of therapy isn’t very effective, almost similar to smokers who quit cold turkey. So if you are having a challenging time quitting smoking despite the therapy, then vaping may be the best choice. Before that, it’s best to seek the advice of your doctor to ensure that there won’t be fatal consequences to vaping, as well as other suggestions on how to quit smoking.
About Second-Hand Vaping
We have heard of secondhand smoking, but is it safe to vape around pregnant women?
Yes, it is safe. There has been no known risk that affects pregnant women. If you are pregnant and find that there is someone vaping in the room, then no need to worry. There have been a few tests and studies showing that secondhand vaping won’t do any damage to you or your unborn child.
But if the smell or sight of smoke makes you feel uncomfortable, then it’s recommended to leave the room or open the window to avoid nausea or any negative feeling.
How To Quit Smoking
If you want to stop vaping and smoking completely, then there are a few recommendations to help you out:
Support and Counseling
This is the best way to get the proper support you need to take the first step when you quit the stick. Seek help and support from your loved ones so they are able to understand what you’re going through and make sure that cigarettes are out of your life. You may also want to consider going to counselling sessions or support groups to find friends who will empower and encourage you to quit the stick together!
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
You may want to consider using nicotine gum, inhalers, lozenges, or patches to help avoid the withdrawal symptoms. But take note that this method does not work for everyone!
Another way to replace nicotine is by keeping your hands busy. Find hobbies that are safe to do while pregnant (such as knitting or playing hand instruments). Light exercise like walking can help divert your focus (and is healthy for the baby). When you feel tempted to smoke or vape, remember the reason why you quit and go for another activity.
Cessation Tablets?
Using these types of tablets to help with smoking is NOT recommended! Before you consider this, you must consult your doctor and discuss the risks of taking it. If you plan on using cessation tablets, then it must be under close supervision of your doctor.
In Conclusion
And there you have it! While vaping isn’t known to be hazardous to pregnant women, it’s still best to avoid it as much as possible and take the necessary steps to quit the stick. Remember that you are doing it for the health of both you and your baby!
I hope that this article answers your question about vaping and pregnancy. So don’t wait any longer and begin your journey to quitting cigarettes today.
If you have any questions or would like to share your tips and experiences on vaping while pregnant, then comment down below. I would love to hear what you have to think!
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